What Display Profile (Display Pref Pane) should I use as my start point: the default 'iMac', sRGB, or a calibrated profile (via the Mac OS Calibrate software)? I would expect that first calibrating (in expert mode) would have the advantage of starting with more balanced RGB settings, but then again, isn't this what the Spyder calibrator does? Also. are the F1 and F2 keys (sun symbol) brightness controls or backlight controls? What brightness start point do users recommend? Other advice ...

What Display Profile (Display Pref Pane) should I use as my start point: the default 'iMac', sRGB, or a calibrated profile (via the Mac OS Calibrate software)? I would expect that first calibrating (in expert mode) would have the advantage of starting with more balanced RGB settings, but then again, isn't this what the Spyder calibrator does? Also. are the F1 and F2 keys (sun symbol) brightness controls or backlight controls? What brightness start point do users recommend? Other advice ...

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Get another lcd panel. The glossy screen will really throw your color perception off. If that isn't an option, I would calibrate under the simple setting and leave your profile on your imac's natural gamma. The colors are pretty good under that setting. F1 and F2 affect backlight brightness, but I really don't see the difference. I recommend setting your room lights to whatever level you'll be using them at and turning down to minimum brightness. Then, push F2 a couple of times until you think it has gotten just a little too bright. Push F1 once, and you're good to go.

Easier said than done unfortunately, but yes, I'm aware these iMac panels aren't up to adequate color grading work. I'll take your advice about the gamma and backlight controls. btw I like my iMac around the 5th or 6th bar under average lighting conditions and around the 2nd or 3rd bar under dim conditions.

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